In a bid to modernize its border control measures, the Home Office of the United Kingdom has announced significant changes to the immigration system affecting all visa holders residing in the country. Under the new system, individuals possessing Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) will be required to create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account to access their eVisa, a digital form of proof regarding their immigration status.
As part of the Home Office’s initiative to transition to a digital immigration system, individuals holding BRPs will be invited to migrate their documentation to the digital platform starting in the summer of 2024. By the year 2025, nearly all visa holders living in the UK will be required to possess eVisas, marking a significant shift away from physical documents such as biometric residence permits/cards (BRPs/BRCs). The gradual phasing out of physical documents will see BRPs expiring by the end of 2024, with physical immigration documents being gradually discontinued by 2025.
The UK government assures that the transition process to create a UKVI account and access eVisas is both free and straightforward for individuals holding physical and paper documents. Importantly, the Home Office emphasizes that creating a UKVI account will not alter individuals’ current immigration status or their rights within the UK.
According to UK officials, the introduction of eVisas plays a central role in enhancing the safety and security of the UK by mitigating the risks associated with fraud, loss, and abuse of physical documents. Additionally, it aims to strengthen border security and facilitate the creation of a contactless border, aligning with the government’s broader plans for modernization.
Tom Pursglove, Minister for Legal Migration and the Border, underscored the significance of the eVisa rollout, stating, “Replacing physical immigration documents with eVisas will ensure firm control over who comes here to live, work or study, strengthening border security and preventing abuse of the immigration system, while delivering cost-savings for UK taxpayers.”
Individuals who already possess an eVisa need not take any action, as the Home Office will automatically effect the transition. However, they are advised to keep their UKVI account updated with any changes to personal information, such as new passport or contact details.
While traveling internationally, individuals are advised to continue carrying their valid physical immigration documents until expiration. To avoid travel delays, individuals with eVisas should inform the Home Office of any intended travel on a different passport through the online ‘Update your UK Visas and Immigration account details’ service on Gov.uk.
The eVisa, securely linked with the holder’s unique biometric information, offers protection against identity fraud. Unlike physical documents, eVisas cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with, providing individuals with access to their data in real-time and enabling swift updates to the Home Office regarding personal details.
Moreover, eVisas facilitate government departments’ verification of an individual’s immigration status, ensuring eligibility for access to public services.